Discover the Historic Quaker Meeting House on Quaker Hill
Nestled high atop Quaker Hill, overlooking the tranquil town of Uxbridge, Ontario, stands a humble yet historically rich structure—the Uxbridge Quaker Meeting House. Known as the oldest building in Uxbridge Township, this timeless site embodies over two centuries of quiet devotion, community, and architectural heritage.
Quaker Meeting House – Front
A Glimpse Back in Time: Built in 1820
Constructed in 1820, the current Meeting House replaced an even earlier building from 1809. Its modest, board-and-batten exterior belies the significant role it has played in local religious and community life for more than 200 years.
The Meeting House reflects the values of the Quakers, or the Religious Society of Friends—simplicity, peace, integrity, and community. Sitting serenely on Quaker Hill, the building commands a peaceful view of the town from the west, offering a literal and symbolic perspective of mindfulness and reflection.
Architectural Simplicity with Stories Etched in Timber
The Meeting House was designed with functional and symbolic symmetry. Originally, a central interior partition separated the men’s and women’s sides during worship, reflecting Quaker customs of the era. However, around 1881, the partition was moved to one end to create space for a small Sunday School. During that renovation, the west door and a south wall window were switched—an adjustment that disrupted the building’s architectural symmetry but added a new chapter to its evolving story.
Inside, the details speak to the thoughtful consideration given to its congregants. The hand-hewn pine pews are unique—some open-backed to accommodate the women’s bustles of the time, others closed-backed for men. A centrally-hung brass lamp once provided the main source of lighting, complemented by smaller coal lamps along the perimeter. In the centre of the room stood a wood stove to provide heat, though it has since been removed.
Quaker Friends Meeting House. Photo courtesy of Uxbridge The First 100 Years by: J. Peter Hvidsten. Page 161
Preservation Through the Years
Preserving history requires both care and commitment. In 1995, the Meeting House was gently raised, and a concrete block foundation was installed to stabilize and support the structure for future generations. Thanks to community support and dedicated volunteers, it remains a well-preserved artifact of Ontario’s early settler history.
An Invitation to Remember and Celebrate
Each year, the Annual Remembrance Service is held on the second Sunday in June at 2:30 p.m. All are welcome to join this special event that honours the spiritual and cultural legacy of the Uxbridge Quaker community.
For those seeking a unique and deeply meaningful location for a wedding, the Meeting House also offers a serene setting steeped in history. While amenities are primitive—no hydro or running water—the spirit of the place is profoundly special. There’s no fee, but couples often leave a generous donation toward the upkeep of this treasured space.
Quaker Meeting House – East Side
Plan Your Visit or Special Day
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of heritage buildings, or simply someone looking for a tranquil space to reflect, the Uxbridge Quaker Meeting House invites you to step back in time.
1. What is the Uxbridge Quaker Meeting House? It’s the oldest building in Uxbridge, built in 1820, serving as a place of worship for the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers).
2. Where is it located? It’s located atop Quaker Hill, west of Uxbridge, overlooking the town with a scenic, peaceful view.
3. Can weddings be held at the Meeting House? Yes! Weddings are welcomed, though facilities are basic with no electricity or water. There’s no charge, but donations are appreciated.
4. What events are held there? The Annual Remembrance Service is the main event, held every second Sunday in June at 2:30 p.m.
5. Is the building open to the public? Visitors are welcome to attend services or arrange visits for special occasions, but it’s best to contact the organizers in advance via their website.
6. How was the building preserved? In 1995, the building was raised and placed on a concrete block foundation to protect and preserve it for the future.
Robert Mooney Residence – 122 Brock Street East (c.1874)
Robert Mooney Residence – 122 Brock Street East (c.1874)
The Historic Robert Mooney Residence: A Testament to Gothic Revival Architecture
Nestled in the heart of our town, the Robert Mooney Residence stands as a stunning testament to 19th-century Gothic Revival architecture. This historic house, originally owned by Robert Mooney, a prominent local merchant, and his wife Elizabeth, captures the essence of an era where craftsmanship and elegance were paramount. Built by local homebuilder and architect Johnston Brown under the meticulous direction of Mr. Mooney, the residence is a cherished landmark that continues to captivate both residents and visitors alike.
Architectural Details and Design
The Robert Mooney Residence is a one-and-a-half-story, “T” shaped red brick house that rests gracefully on a robust stone foundation. The use of white brick to accentuate the windows and quoins adds a touch of sophistication and highlights the intricate masonry work that was prevalent during the period. This combination of red and white brick not only enhances the visual appeal of the house but also reflects the architectural trends of the time.
One of the most striking features of the residence is the north gable, which boasts a Gothic-style door that opens onto a beautifully adorned verandah. The verandah itself is a masterpiece, featuring carved brackets and entablature that showcase the attention to detail and craftsmanship that went into its construction. These elements not only provide structural support but also add a decorative flair that is characteristic of Gothic Revival architecture.
Distinctive Gables and Windows
The house is adorned with gables on the east, west, and south sides, each contributing to the building’s unique aesthetic. Unlike many Gothic Revival structures, the gables of the Robert Mooney Residence are free from bargeboards and finials, giving it a more streamlined appearance. Despite this simplicity, the design remains elegant and timeless.
The small west gable is particularly noteworthy for its Gothic window, a feature that adds both charm and character to the residence. This window, with its pointed arch and intricate tracery, is a hallmark of Gothic design and allows natural light to flood the interior, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The West Side Sun Porch
Adding to the charm of the Robert Mooney Residence is the sun porch located on the west side of the house. This delightful space offers a perfect spot to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscape while being sheltered from the elements. The sun porch is an ideal place for relaxation and contemplation, embodying the harmonious blend of form and function that defines the entire residence.
Legacy and Preservation
The Robert Mooney Residence is more than just a house; it is a piece of our town’s history. The careful preservation of its architectural features allows us to appreciate the artistry and vision of its original builders. As we walk through its halls and admire its Gothic windows and verandah, we are transported back to a time when attention to detail and craftsmanship were paramount.
Today, the Robert Mooney Residence stands as a reminder of our rich architectural heritage and the enduring legacy of those who came before us. It is a symbol of pride for our community and a testament to the timeless beauty of Gothic Revival architecture.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a lover of beautiful homes, the Robert Mooney Residence offers a glimpse into a bygone era and continues to inspire admiration and wonder.
Who remembers the drinking fountain at Elgin Pond?
Located at the corner of Main St S and Mill St is the spring fed water trough. Kids used to lay down in the trough to get soaked by the cold spring water and then jump into the pond, making the pond water feel warmer.
As kids we used to drink out of it all of the time. If you cup your hand over the spout water shoots out the hole on top like a drinking fountain.
The Commercial Hotel on Brock St before it was moved to its present day location. Photographer Unknown, taken from the Growing Up In Uxbridge Facebook Group.
.
Nestled in the heart of Uxbridge, Ontario, The Commercial Hotel stands as a symbol of resilience, history, and community transformation. With roots dating back to 1868, this iconic building has undergone dramatic changes over the decades—each chapter telling a unique story about Uxbridge’s evolving culture and heritage.
From Humble Beginnings: The Original Commercial Hotel (1868)
The story of The Commercial Hotel begins over 150 years ago on Brock Street East, just east of Main Street. Built in 1868, the structure quickly became an integral part of town life, initially functioning as a hotel, a livery stable, and later a home. It was more than just architecture; it was a cornerstone of the community’s daily rhythm. This location served as a bustling hub for travellers and townsfolk alike, offering lodging and care for horses—an essential service in a pre-automobile era.
.
The Commercial Hotel on Brock St before it was moved to its present day location. Photographer Unknown, taken from the Growing Up In Uxbridge Facebook Group.
.
A Monument on the Move: Saving a Historic Landmark (1981–1982)
By the early 1980s, the building faced demolition. But in an extraordinary act of preservation, the town chose to relocate the entire structure in November 1981 rather than lose it forever. The move was nothing short of a feat—raising the historic building and transporting it to its current location at 37 Main Street North.
By 1982, the site began a new chapter with the development of Trinity Manor Apartments,—a 40-unit apartment complex designed specifically for independent senior living. Though the building had moved, its spirit and historical integrity remained intact.
.
Photo taken Al Dunlop, photographer for the Toronto Star shows the building being moved west along Brock Street
The Hobby Horse Arms Era: A Beloved Local Pub and Scotch Haven
For many years, the Commercial Hotel building housed one of Uxbridge’s most cherished establishments: The Hobby Horse Arms. This venue wasn’t just a pub—it was a community cornerstone and a destination for scotch lovers across the GTA, boasting one of the largest single malt scotch collections in the region.
Visitors could enjoy a cozy meal at the pub located on the lower level, complete with a sun-soaked patio during the summer months. Upstairs, a Wine Bar offered a more refined ambiance and could be reserved for private parties and special events, making it a beloved venue for celebrations of all kinds.
.
The Commercial Hotel – 1868 in its present day location on Main Street.
.
A New Chapter: Main Street Pools (2020–Present)
In 2020, after many decades of vibrant service to both locals and visitors, the building turned another page in its story. It was sold and transformed into Main Street Pools, which now occupies this landmark space. Today, Main Street Pools continues to serve the community, albeit in a very different way—offering high-quality pool products and services from the very location that has witnessed more than a century of local evolution.
Escaping Destruction a Second Time
Then, in May of 2022, the Commercial Hotel once again proved its resilience. When a tornado tore through Uxbridge, leaving destruction in its wake, the historic building narrowly escaped serious damage. It stood tall amid the chaos—a testament to its enduring structure and the care taken to preserve it over the years.
.
.
Why The Commercial Hotel Matters
What makes The Commercial Hotel so special isn’t just its age or its unique journey across town. It’s the way this building has continuously adapted to meet the changing needs of the Uxbridge community. Whether it was hosting weary travelers in the 1800s, offering fine scotch and warm meals in the 2000s, or helping families build backyard oases today, the building has always been more than just bricks and mortar.
FAQs about The Commercial Hotel in Uxbridge
1. When was The Commercial Hotel originally built? It was built in 1868 on Brock Street East, just east of Main Street.
2. Why was the building moved in 1981? The building was moved to avoid demolition and to preserve a piece of Uxbridge history.
3. Where is The Commercial Hotel located now? It currently sits at 37 Main Street North in Uxbridge.
4. What was the Hobby Horse Arms? It was a popular pub and wine bar known for having one of the largest single malt scotch collections in the Greater Toronto Area.
5. What is the building used for today? As of 2020, it houses Main Street Pools, a business offering pool services and products.
6. What are Trinity Manor Apartments? They are a 40-unit apartment complex built behind the relocated Commercial Hotel, designed for seniors living independently.
Conclusion: A Legacy Still Standing
The Commercial Hotel may no longer host guests under its original name, but its legacy endures in the walls of 37 Main Street North. Through every transformation—from hotel to a home, pub to pool shop—it has reflected the heartbeat of Uxbridge. It reminds us that while times may change, the soul of a community is often rooted in the stories and structures of its past.
For nearly a century, the Uxbridge Farmers Co-op stood as a vital hub for the agricultural and local community. What began as a modest initiative by local farmers in 1915 eventually became a bustling complex of services that supported the town’s growth through much of the 20th century.
Formed in 1915 under the name Uxbridge Farmers’ Co-operative of Ontario, the organization began with a single coal shed at the corner of Brock and Victoria Streets. This original building was eventually purchased from Harvey J. Gould and served as the foundation for what would become a much larger enterprise.
History of the Uxbridge Farmer’s Co-op
Uxbridge Farmer’s Co-op got its start in Uxbridge in 1915 as the Uxbridge Farmer’s of Ontario (UCO). During the 50’s and 60’s the Co-op seen its biggest growth. In 1951 a building at the corner of Brock Street and Victoria was opened. Then in 1957 the Co-op opened its largest expansion, which included 6 grain silos, a feed mill and a feed warehouse.
Uxbridge Farmer’s Co-operative. Photo courtesy of Uxbridge The Good Old Days by: J. Peter Hvidsten Page 98
A Period of Rapid Growth
The 1950s and 1960s marked a golden era for the Co-op. In April 1951, construction began on a new building, and by October, a new store was officially opened. This was just the beginning. In 1956, a major expansion added six grain silos, a feed mill, and a feed warehouse near the railway tracks—essential infrastructure that opened in May 1957 and significantly boosted local agricultural productivity.
Then, in 1960, the Co-op underwent further renovations and expansions, opening a larger grocery and hardware store in partnership with the Red & White food store franchise. This move solidified its place not only as a resource for farmers, but also as a convenient shopping destination for the wider Uxbridge community.
Adapting to the Times
In 1965, members voted to integrate more closely with a broader network by becoming a branch of the United Co-operatives of Ontario. A few years later, in 1968, the facilities underwent a facelift, and the grocery store re-opened under a new name: the Super Save Market—reflecting the shifting trends of the retail world.
Uxbridge Farmer’s Co-operative. Photo courtesy of Uxbridge The Good Old Days by: J. Peter Hvidsten Page 98
A Quiet End and New Beginnings
Despite its long and successful history, the Uxbridge Co-op eventually succumbed to the changing times. It closed and was abandoned in 2005. By 2010, the once-busy buildings were demolished. Although initial plans called for an office complex, financial difficulties stalled progress.
Finally, in 2015, the property found new life when it was purchased again. Construction began in 2019, giving rise to the building that stands on the site today—a quiet yet enduring testament to the land’s long legacy of serving the people of Uxbridge.
The following photos taken from Google Street view taken in July 2009 show the structures just before they were demolished in 2010.
Remembering the Co-op
The Uxbridge Farmers Co-op was more than just a store or a mill—it was a cornerstone of community, cooperation, and rural resilience. While the physical structures may be gone, their story remains a lasting part of Uxbridge’s rich and evolving history.
Source and Photo Credits
Uxbridge The Good Old Days by: J. Peter Hvidsten
Uxbridge Landmarks Past and Present by: J. Peter Hvidsten
The set was constructed just south of Uxbridge. Road to Avonlea is a Canadian television series first broadcast in Canada between January 7, 1990, and March 31, 1996. Who remembers driving by with the hopes of catching a glimpse of filming or seeing one of the stars?
Who remembers Uxbridge’s Fire Siren? When there was a need to call the firefighters to the fire hall for an emergency the siren was activated and the entire town knew there was trouble somewhere.
As kids, when we heard the siren go off we would stop whatever we were doing and pedal our bikes downtown as fast as we could so we could see the fire trucks go out.
One of our memories of growing up in Uxbridge. We would love to hear your storey about the siren.
Bascom – Williams House, 70 Main Street – Circa 1872
The above photo was taken in 2021. Here you can see the enlarged dormer and front porch.
History of the Bascom – Williams House
According to the Uxbridge Heritage Register, the Bascom – Williams House built circa 1872 was a small square frame house that was later bricked but has since undergone a number of changes. The property was originally owned by Dr. Joseph Bascom. Dr. Basom owned all the land on the west side of Main St between Brock St and Mill St before he divided it up into lots during the 1850’s. Ownership was transferred to his daughter Mary in 1872 and it is believed the house was built not long after that. Mary married Alonzo D. Williams who was the first clerk for the Village of Uxbridge and held that position for 27 years before his death in 1899. Alonzo Williams was the grandson of Elias Williams, who in 1831 became the first white settler in what is now Port Perry.
The above photo is Courtesy of Uxbridge – Scugog Historic Homes and Heritage Buildings By: Paul Arculus J. Peter Hvidsten.
The photo above taken circa 1900 shows the front porch and dormer before they were both enlarged.
Albert Hardy House – 30 Franklin Street – Circa 1875
History
In 1875, Albert Hardy, renowned for his craftsmanship as a piano tuner at the Uxbridge Piano and Organ Company, envisioned and constructed a distinctive dwelling that stands as a testament to his skill and creativity. This remarkable residence, boasting a style uncommon in Uxbridge, showcases the elegance of the Second Empire architectural design, often referred to as the Napoleon III style.
The defining features of this architectural marvel include a straight-sided mansard roof, accentuated by two hooded dormers adorned with intricate surrounds. Resonating with elements of the Italianate style, the cornice boasts scrolled brackets and a plain frieze, adding a touch of grandeur to the façade. A noteworthy highlight is the indented double entryway, distinguished by rounded lights and raised brick quoins, serving as a captivating introduction to the home’s interior.
Beyond its striking exterior, the Albert Hardy House boasts a wealth of captivating interior details, each contributing to its timeless charm and allure. From ornate molding to exquisite finishes, the residence embodies a harmonious blend of sophistication and craftsmanship, inviting visitors to step into a world of refined elegance and timeless beauty.
The above image was taken in 2021 shows the house from the corner of Cedar Street and King St West.
History of the Harvey and Martha Gould House
In 1886 Harvey Gould and his wife Martha purchased this house built by John C. Widdifield. The Gould family owned this home until 1930. Harvey Gould, son of Joseph Gould (one of the original founders of Uxbridge) was a merchant, mill owner and also a member of the private banking firm of Gould Brothers. He was active in municipal affairs and was mayor for several terms. The two upper gothic doors open onto balconies. Much of the interior and exterior of the house has been restored. The front verandah is original to the house, as are the window frames and sashes all with original hand-rolled glass. Over the years there were two additions were added to the west end of the house.
The above was taken from the Uxbridge Walking Tour Brochure – Written and illustrated by Sharon E. Nielsen and Wendy E. Auger.
Facebook
X
Pinterest
Copy Link
